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Abstract Throughout the world educators and parents desire that their children excel in mathematics and science. National leaders view mathematics and science achievements of their citizens as a measure of their individual country’s competitiveness. Scoring high in mathematics and science examinations has become an end in itself and a source of national pride. The author indicates in this essay that this standard fails to fulfill the mission of science and mathematics education. A higher examination score may give the student better opportunities for advanced education and employment and may increase his ability to perform technical tasks. However the pursuit of high test scores as the ultimate goal of science education has in fact limited the role of science education. The author suggests that science education could and should，in addition to teaching knowledge and technical skills，set a higher goal of introducing the learner to the history of scientific discovery and invention，to the method of scientific inquiry，and to the habit of reflective thinking. Through this means，future generations would be educated to be more objective and intelligent and less biased and prejudiced，and thus more competent，creative and ethical.
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